Aristophanes Assemblywomen

Question 1

Who is the main character in Aristophanes’ comedic play ‘Assemblywomen’?

Answer 1

Praxagora

Praxagora plans to disguise herself as a man to take over the Assembly.

Question 2

What is the primary goal of Praxagora and her co-conspirators in ‘Assemblywomen’?

Answer 2

To take over the Assembly and hand political power to women

They disguise themselves as men to achieve this goal.

Question 3

What are the reasons Praxagora gives for women being suitable to manage the state?

Answer 3

• They manage their households well
• They would manage foreign policy without sending sons to war
• They are traditionalists and adhere to tried-and-tested methods

These reasons reflect the societal views of women in ancient Greece.

Question 4

What does Aristophanes’ play ‘Assemblywomen’ satirize?

Answer 4

The idea of women holding power

The play also makes Praxagora a sympathetic character.

Question 5

Fill in the blank: Aristophanes’ ‘Assemblywomen’ is a satire that _______ the idea of women in political power.

Answer 5

[mocks]

Question 6

True or False: Most of the women helping Praxagora are focused on the political plan.

Answer 6

False

They are more interested in fixing disguises and drinking.